Programming
01Java fundamentals, robot control, PID, swerve-drive programming, and autonomous routines
Since 2025
Student-led engineering education
90+
Instructional sessions during 2025-26
55+
Active participants served
85%+
Students reported little or no prior engineering experience
Open engineering education
Free, student-led instruction.
Since 2025, Rōnin Robotics has offered student-led engineering workshops in which experienced members teach programming, electrical systems, mechanical design and fabrication, and CAD to students of all experience levels, regardless of whether they are members of the team.
During the 2025-26 school year, Rōnin members delivered more than 90 instructional sessions. Our workshops grew from a simple belief: engineering should be accessible to everyone. By offering free, student-led instruction, we aim to lower barriers and expand access to hands-on engineering education throughout our community.
The program served more than 55 active participants, over 85% of whom reported having little or no prior engineering experience.
Program overview
Practical skills, from first principles to a working robot.
Electrical
02Robot wiring and CAN bus communication
Mechanical
03Basic tool use, fabrication, and CNC machining
CAD
043D modeling and mechanical design using Autodesk Fusion
Summer 2026
Beginning in summer 2026, Rōnin expanded its programming workshops through an online summer series.
Who can attend?
Open to all interested students.
Our workshops are open to all interested students, regardless of whether they are members of Rōnin Robotics or have an engineering background. Students from Portola High School and neighboring high schools are welcome to participate.
Frequently asked questions
Before you arrive.
What subjects do the workshops cover?
Workshops cover programming, electrical systems, mechanical fabrication, and CAD at both introductory and advanced levels.
Who teaches the workshops?
Sessions are led by experienced Rōnin Robotics members who have worked directly on the team’s competition robot. Instructors share practical skills through demonstrations, guided exercises, and hands-on activities.
Are the workshops free?
Yes. Rōnin Engineering Workshops are offered at no cost to participants.
Do I have to attend every session?
No. Participants may attend the sessions that match their interests and experience levels. However, attending consistently is recommended because many workshops build on skills introduced in earlier sessions.
Are workshops offered in person or online?
Workshops are primarily held in person during the school year. Virtual sessions may also be offered during the summer to make the program accessible to students who cannot attend on campus.
Do I need to bring equipment?
Most tools and equipment are provided during in-person workshops. Participants may be asked to bring a laptop for programming or CAD sessions.
Safety and participation notes
01
Use of tools, machinery, and electrical equipment requires the advisor’s approval and compliance with all school and workshop safety procedures.
02
Photos or videos may be taken during workshops for team documentation and outreach. Participants who do not wish to appear in published media should notify the team before the session.
03
Workshop topics, schedules, locations, and availability may change based on instructor, facility, and equipment availability.